DWP says thousands need to log on and check bank account now

DWP says thousands of people who may be entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £600 should check their bank accounts today.

The Department for Work and Pensions has warned UK households to log on and check their bank accounts today. The DWP says thousands of people who may be entitled to the Winter Fuel Payment worth up to £600 should check their bank accounts today.

If you’ve yet to receive the money by today (January 26) and you believe you’re entitled to it, then you should contact Winter Fuel Payment Centre. The Winter Fuel Payment is normally worth up to £300, the DWP explains on its website.

This is depending on your living arrangements and circumstances, but everyone who is eligible this winter is also receiving an extra £300 pensioner cost of living payment. This means some households will get up to £600 from the DWP.

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Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride said: “We have delivered on our promise to halve inflation and will continue to support people right across the country, including pensioners who may be facing particular challenges over the colder months.

“As well as up to £600 to help our pensioners stay warm this winter, we’re boosting pensions through the Triple Lock – increasing the full rate of the New State Pension by over £900 next year.” The money will appear in bank statements with the payment reference starting with the customer’s National Insurance number followed by ‘DWP WFP’ for people in Great Britain, or ‘DFC WFP’ for people in Northern Ireland.

The overwhelming majority of Winter Fuel Payments are paid automatically but some people need to make a claim, such as those who qualify but do not receive benefits or the State Pension and have never previously received a Winter Fuel Payment.

Winter Fuel Payments can be claimed by phone or by post. Further information and details about claiming can be found on the DWP website online today.